It was likely a combination of circumstances and nothing to do with race.
Airlines , especially lcc's ..simply don't have the time or the expertise to make definitive decisions about the capacity of exit row occupants.
Occupancy of Exit row seats is not an examination of competency process
Mostly they accept the occupants but it is the crews call and is really not a negotiable process..
My hearing is poor and I would accept my fate with a smile if booted out, it's just a cheap seat in a crowded low cost airline cabin after all..